Arthur Leslie Lynds

Tony Lynds (88) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on March 26, 2025 in Fallbrook, California. Tony was born on January 4, 1937 in Los Angeles. He graduated from Pomona College and received his Masters in Education from Claremont College in 1958. Tony grew up loving sports, having played football all four years at Pomona. During this time, Tony and his good friend, Kris Kristofferson, helped to reestablish the rugby team which had been discontinued during World War II. The rugby program has continued with a strong tradition to this day. Tony went on to teach and coach at the High School from which he graduated, Chula Vista. In 1968, Tony found his true calling and began to coach and teach at Palomar Junior College.

In his over 30 years at Palomar Tony was known as a true “players coach”. He possessed a rare ability to connect with his athletes on a personal level, fostering an environment of trust and mutual respect. He understood their struggles, celebrated their triumphs, and always had their best interests at heart. His players knew he genuinely cared, and that bond created a powerful sense of loyalty and dedication. He was more than a coach; he was a confidant, a mentor, and a friend. Many coaches that worked with Tony, benefited from his wisdom, his strategic mind, and his unwavering commitment to his players. Many of his former assistants went on to successful coaching careers of their own, carrying forward the values and principles he instilled in them. His impact on the game will continue to be felt through the coaches he inspired. Tony also injected a sense of humor into his coaching and family life through his practical jokes.

While his career was defined by his time as a football coach, that title alone does not cover the complete man that he was. He was a teacher, a friend, and a steady guiding hand. He understood that many junior college players were given second chances and he took that responsibility with great care. He helped to provide structure, and a path forward, for countless young men. He will be missed by all of those whose lives he touched. He was inducted into both the Palomar College and California Junior College Hall of Fame.

Tony, loved his family and is survived by his wife Marilyn, sister Belinda, his three sons Kris, Greg, Danny, his Daughter Melissa, and his ten Grandkids, Scott, Travis, Brad, Bailey, Bryce, Kyle, Kyla, Nathan, Emmi, and Noe. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that donations be made in his name to the Palomar College Athletic Program. https://palomarathletics.com/donate